Major Theme:

Family, honor, loyalty, courage, decision-making, and unselfish love

 

Summary:

Omri receives an old cupboard with a key as a birthday present.  He also receives a second hand plastic Indian.  As he places the Indian in the cupboard, the Indian mysteriously and magically comes to life.  Omri develops a secret relationship with the Indian which creates a feeling of respect and appreciation.  He also works to develop a better understanding of the differences in people.

 

Question #1

Question #2

Question #3

Explain Omri's reaction to the birthday present that Patrick gives him.

What does Omri discover in the cupboard the morning of his birthday?

Why doesn't Omri share his discovery with the rest of his family?

Question #4

What do you suppose Little Bear's thoughts were as he found himself in a giant's cupboard?

Question #5

Describe Omri's feelings and thoughts when he first saw the Indian crouching in the corner of the cupboard.

Question #6

Question #7

Question #8

Question #9

What does Little Bear build while Omri is in school?

What does Omri make for Little Bear during crafts class?

While Omri is getting stew for Little Bear, what is Patrick doing in Omri's room?

There are several fights and arguments during the story.  Have you ever been in a fight?  Was it physical or verbal?  Describe the conflict.

Question #10

How can you avoid conflict or change the situation to resolve the problem?

Question #11

Question #12

Question #13

Why do the boys decide to leave the cupboard empty at the end of the story?

 

Question #14

Question #15

Question #16

Question #17

Question #18

Extension #1

Extension #2

Extension #3

Literary Interview.  In pairs, one student pretends to be a character in the story.  The other student plays the role of an interviewer.  As partners, create meaningful questions and appropriate responses that provide insights into the characters' life and personality.  Complete the interview in front of the class.

Research: The French and Indian War
American West of 1800's
Iroquois Nation
Show your findings in an oral presentation.

Choose a scene from the story.  Create and organize a diorama.

Extension #4

Research Native American games.  Write a description of your choice.  Share and teach the class your game choice.

Extension #5

Discuss friendship; the qualities, compromises, loyalty, disagreements, etc.  Write and send a letter to your friend.